Obi to police: Replicate prompt rescue of retired AIG’s wife with ordinary Nigerians

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, has commended the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for rescuing the wife of Hakeem Odumosu, a retired assistant inspector-general of police (AIG).

On January 16, the victim was whisked away by four masked men while entering her home in Arepo, Obafemi Owode LGA of Ogun state.

The abductors reportedly took the former AIG’s wife through a swampy area to an unknown destination after dragging her out of her sport utility vehicle (SUV).

In the wake of the abduction, the police command in Ogun said it had deployed officers to investigate the incident.

On Thursday, Muyiwa Adejobi, force spokesperson, announced that operatives rescued the victim and subsequently neutralised the kidnappers, recovering the ransom and weapons in the process.

Reacting in a post via X on Friday, Obi asked the police to extend similar urgency and professionalism to cases involving ordinary Nigerians, whose plights often go unnoticed.

“I commend the Nigeria Police for their swift and effective response in rescuing Mrs. Folashade Odumosu, the wife of retired AIG Hakeem Odumosu, who was kidnapped just a few days ago,” Obi wrote.

“The operation, conducted within a week, highlights their capability to act decisively when motivated.

“What stands out is the precision with which the rescue mission was executed. It not only led to the safe release of the victim, unharmed, but also resulted in the neutralisation of some kidnappers, the recovery of weapons, and the retrieval of the ransom. Such a professional outcome deserves high praise.

“The Ogun State Police Command expressed gratitude for the technical support and cooperation received from the Force Headquarters and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

“The IGP, who displayed exceptional interest in the case, commended the Ogun Command for dismantling the criminal network behind the abduction.

“This success story underscores a critical point: with proper leadership, motivation, and adequate support from the top echelon of security agencies, the fight against crime can yield impressive results.

“As the country continues to grapple with rising cases of kidnapping and related crimes, this incident offers hope.

“It proves that these issues can be tackled effectively if security personnel are well-resourced, supported, and committed to their responsibilities.

“While celebrating this laudable achievement, I urge the Nigeria Police to extend the same level of urgency and professionalism to cases involving everyday Nigerians — those whose plights are often underreported or ignored.

“Many innocent citizens remain victims of abduction, languishing in captivity without rescue efforts reaching them.”